Kobe Bryant’s ruptured Achilles’ tendon, which will keep him out of the Los Angeles Lakers’ lineup for six to nine months, has added more intrigue to impending free agency for teammate Dwight Howard. …

I know some of you are going to talk about how Dwight Howard changes the Lakers defensively, but don’t forget the great defense the Rockets will get from Omer Asik. He’s just like Howard. I mean, aside from the jumping ability, quickness and hands, they are virtually the same player. …